Former Real Madrid midfielder Rafael van der Vaart has sparked controversy by describing Manchester City striker Erling Haaland as “nothing but a normal player.” Van der Vaart claimed that Haaland’s only notable advantage over other players is his pace, but criticized his technical ability.
The comments came after Haaland failed to score in his last two Premier League games, as Manchester City struggled with form, failing to secure a win in their last seven matches across all competitions, including four consecutive Premier League defeats.
Speaking on talkSPORT’s The LineUp show, Van der Vaart said, “Take away his pace, and I see Erling Haaland as a normal player. Technique-wise, he’s not good enough. He can get away with it when City are on form, but not when they’re struggling.”
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He went on to compare Haaland to top strikers he played with, such as Ruud van Nistelrooy, adding, “I don’t see him at the same level. Manchester City need Erling Haaland right now, but where is he? That’s why he’s not among that select few world-class strikers.”